Italy skipper Sergio Parisse is set to miss their Six Nations clash with Wales in Rome next weekend after being sent off for his club this weekend.

The 29-year-old was shown a red card for allegedly insulting referee Laurent Cardona during Stade Francais' Top 14 clash with Begles Bordeaux on Saturday evening. A red card carries an automatic ban under French regulations, which applies to the first competition that follows.

Therefore Parisse, who has won 93 caps for his country, looks destined to miss the Six Nations clash with Rob Howley's men in Rome, despite denying the allegations. Italy head coach Jacques Brunel has responded by calling Mauro Bergamasco into his squad as cover for the Italian No.8 and captain.

Parisse later wrote: "Sorry to my team-mates and fans for the red card, which I find too harsh! I never insulted Monsieur Cardona."

Brunel added: "I have not spoken to Sergio yet. I don't know the exact reason for this red card. It is a huge set-back that is for sure, especially for him. As coaches, it is just something we have to put up with."